The Turner Prize is putting Middlesbrough firmly on the cultural map, with its arrival at MIMA (Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art) attracting international attention and introducing thousands of children to some of the most talked-about contemporary art in Britain.
A month after the exhibition opened, organisers have revealed that around 13,000 people have passed through the doors of the gallery, which is part of Teesside University.
Visitors from as far afield as Helsinki and New Delhi have been among them alongside those from across Tees Valley, the wider North East and UK.
This year’s shortlist features artists Simeon Barclay, Marguerite Humeau, Kira Freije and Tanoa Sasraku, whose work is being exhibited as part of the first Turner Prize to be hosted by a university.
But alongside the visitor numbers and critical acclaim, organisers are highlighting the opportunities being created for young people across the Tees Valley.
More than 3,000 schoolchildren took part in activities ahead of the exhibition opening, and a further 10,000 pupils are booked to visit by Christmas.
The schools programme welcomed its first group, from Brambles Primary Academy, on October 1 and is now fully booked until January.
Dr Laura Sillars, Dean of culture and creativity at Teesside University and director of MIMA, said: “This has been a fantastic start for the Turner Prize.
“I was always confident that Middlesbrough would rise to the challenge of hosting the Turner Prize but it is fantastic to see this delivered and people coming here from across the country to witness the cutting-edge of British art.
“The response from critics has been incredibly positive, but just as important is the opportunity to introduce thousands of children and young people to the Turner Prize.”
Meanwhile, the accompanying Turner on Tees programme is extending the celebrations across Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Redcar, Darlington and Stockton, with exhibitions, events and new commissions showcasing artists connected to the region and encouraging community participation.
Middlesbrough’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Philippa Storey, welcomed the early visitor figures and the response from local schools.
“I know Middlesbrough children are also having a wonderful time as part of the schools programme. It’s so important that we can inspire young minds and show them the possibilities of creative and artistic careers.”
The Turner Prize winner will be announced at a ceremony at Teesside University’s Digital Life building on December 10.
The exhibition at MIMA continues until March 29, 2027.